Adjusting to Australian culture

Welcome to Australia! Whether this is your first time abroad or you’re a seasoned traveller making a new home, starting university in a new country is a time of great change.

Embrace Australian culture

It's important to remember that it's natural to need time to adjust to a new culture. To help you get more accustom to Australia, we offer an Australian Culture workshop for an introduction to local culture, customs and slang.

If you are unsure about an aspect of Australian culture, feel free to ask a local. Most people are more than happy to answer your questions.

Make new friends

Building a strong local support network will pay dividends both in personal growth and in adjusting to the new cultural setting.

Coping with culture shock

In your first few weeks and months in a new country, it's common to experience some degree of culture shock. You will notice differences between the way things are done and what you are used to at home.

Common signs that you may be experiencing culture shock include anxiety and loneliness, missing family and friends, avoiding people, unable to eat, problems sleeping, tiredness and disorganisation. Remember, culture shock is a completely normal response to some big changes in your life and there are plenty of things you can do to help yourself settle in.

introducing yourself to people around you, especially students in your courses

don't be afraid to ask questions

getting plenty of exercise, eat well, and drink plenty of water.

Overall, thinking positively, being willing to learn, and maintaining an open mind and light-hearted attitude will make every day a bit easier. But don’t forget to allow yourself sufficient time to adjust.

Health and safety

Australia is generally a very safe place to live and study, but it is still important to look after yourself and be aware of the risks that exist. If you are an international student you need to attend one of our Health and Safety workshops.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory insurance that helps international students meet the cost of any medical and hospital care they may need while in Australia. OSHC also provides limited benefits for pharmaceuticals and ambulance services. The insurance will only cover you from the time you arrive in Australia – you will need additional travel insurance while you are in transit.

Beach safety

Queensland’s beautiful beaches are famous across the world, but it’s important to recognise they can be a dangerous place at times. On average 4 tourists or migrants drown each year on Queensland beaches.

Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) conduct Beach Safety sessions during Orientation Week to keep you safe at the beach and amongst the waves. During these sessions, SLSQ will provide you with vital safety information to raise awareness on how to protect yourself and others.

Driving and cycling

Anytime you drive it is your responsibility to have the correct legal driver’s licence and to abide by the Queensland road rules. Please be aware that cyclists must also abide by the Queensland road rules.

If you hold a current licence from your home country, you may be able to drive legally for the duration of your study period. If the licence is not in English, you also need to carry an International Driving Permit or a recognised translation of your licence. You can obtain these from your home country. Any restrictions on your home country licence must be observed in Australia.

If you are planning on cycling around Brisbane, make sure you use a helmet (it is the law), use the Brisbane City Council’s website to plan your route safely, and take the time to explore the beautiful bikeways that Brisbane has to offer.

You may also have some questions regarding paying fees and living costs. If you cannot pay your fees or are in a difficult situation, please book an appointment to speak with an International Student Advisor.

We can discuss with you:

How to search for scholarship options

Visa work conditions

Referral for career advice (assistance with job searching, resumes and interviews)

Basic budgeting skills and tips

You can also see a Student Help on Campus (SHOC) Welfare Advocate for financial assistance, to discuss financial concerns and ways to improve your situation. SHOC can also provide small loans and access to an emergency food pantry.

Working in Australia

For most international students a student visa allows you to work while studying in Australia.